Drag Race Finale: It’s a Cynch

The 90 minute finale of season seven of RuPaul’s Drag Race is a bit difficult to recap. I could just reveal the winner to you, and that would be that–and a hell of a lot quicker. Fans of RuPaul’s drag queen talent competition seemed restless this season, and it’s already apparent that the winner is making people a bit ansy.

After all of the queens strut down the runway for a cheering crowd, RuPaul reveals herself in a regal silver gown. A gown, it should be noted, that never had trouble finding its light. It felt like beams of light were projecting through my television, and I was constantly reaching for a pair of shades to protect myself. Points go to Tempest Dujour’s religious inspired look and Kennedy Davenport’s ready-to-play-Ursula-on-Broadway coif.

Going into the finale, I was Team Pearl. I thought she had the most interesting throughline, and there was no way that they would allow her to lose the crown. Then again…Ginger Minj has been consistent throughout the entire season–even if I ended up not liking her by the end. Violet won the season’s first challenge, and managed to avoid landing in the bottom two the entire season. She especially stepped it up in the last few weeks.

As with each RuPau’s Drag Race finale, RuPaul speaks with each of the queens and former contestants make appearances. Season 5’s Alaska is now a staple with asking contestants questions from the audience. Kandy was called a Ho, a fan called Max out on her “fake” accent, Katya was worshipped (as she should have been!). It was no surprise that Katya won Miss Congeniality later in the episode. There were moments of family members reuniting with contestants and tearful admissions. Honestly, it’s much better to watch than have me describe.

So, who won? Each of the top three actually performed during the finale with a song that was written specifically for them. Ginger went first, and she reminded everyone how energetic and fun she is on stage. Pearl’s son played up her Ambien-induced persona. Original. Violet’s burlesque routine was surprisingly well done. When it was time to announce the winner, RuPaul got a tickle in her throat and called for Katya to come on stage. The crowd went BERSERK, but all Ru did was ask for a sip of water.

Violet Chachki is announced as this year’s Drag Superstar. Surprised? I was–in a good way. Violet has shown a maturity and knowledge about gay culture that surpasses her tender age of 22 (it’s worth noting that she is the second youngest winner behind Tyra Sanchez). People have been complaining already that it’s an underwhelming end to an underwhelming season. I disagree. Everyone was loud about Team Pearl, and everyone thought it was “time a big girl won Drag Race.” Whatever. I hated Violet at the beginning, and she made me like her. She wanted to be better, and she got better. All the way to her own coronation.

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